I started hiking around 7am. The bugs were out in full force. I had to wear my bug net this time. I tried to beat my time from last week getting to Ice House Saddle. I was off by 5 minutes lol. At the saddle, I ate half my sandwich, as I enjoyed the mild cool breezes.
I took my time because I knew it was going to be a tough day for me. I couldn't get my legs to go as fast as I wanted them too.
Plus, my pack was heavy. I carried extra frozen bottles and lots of food. In addition, I only brought 2.5 liters of water because I knew I could refill at the spring.
So, I took another break at the second saddle under my favorite tree.
After soaking in the views, I slowly made my way to the post where the trail splits just below Cucamonga. I found a shady spot and ate the other half of my sandwich.
I continued on to Etiwanda. I don't remember hiking on this side but it was beautiful. It reminded me of San Bernardino peak. So green and lovely.
Anyways, I walked past the use path that goes up to Etiwanda because I wanted to get a look at Alta Loma peak.
I spoke with Justin who was recently there and he gave me some pointers about the trail and what to expect if I decided to bag an additional peak.
Well, I decided against it knowing I would have to drop another 1000 ft then climb back up. However, I did walk a short distance and as I started to descend more and more, I said forget it. But at least I got a good view of the summit.
So here I am my legs feeling like jello but I was determined to summit Etiwanda & Cucamonga.
Etiwanda was a cool summit. Unfortunately, some dumb ass named Miranda ruined the summit sign.
So after a really short break too tired to climb the cool rocks across the way, I went back down. Surprisingly, on my descent I found the biggest mushrooms I've ever seen. That definitely got me excited!
Onward bound to Cucamonga peak, I spent 30 mins on the summit and I ate my second sandwich and more snacks.
I regained my strength and hiked down as fast as I could. By this time I had half a bottle of water and a very cold slushy electrolyte drink. On the way down, I stopped at the spring, filled up my empty bottles , soaked my cooling towel and hat from the very cold, refreshing spring.
Overall, not a bad day except for the bugs. I managed to summit both peaks with wobbly legs and I accomplished my goal.
Stats: 16-17 miles gain 4800' (+/-)
Please correct me if I'm wrong.
